WSCC Phi Theta Kappa Inducts New Members and Wins Awards at National Conference

On Thursday, May 2nd, the Alpha Rho Gamma Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK) of Washington State Community College (WSCC) held an induction ceremony for new members. PTK is the premier organization for promoting academic achievement among students at two-year colleges. Altogether, 54 students were inducted into the honor society on Thursday evening, and WSCC President Dr. Bradley Ebersole was also inducted as an honorary member of the organization. "Being inducted into PTK is an honor and distinction these students will carry with them throughout their lives", says President Ebersole. "It will certainly enhance their college experience, and will assist as they continue their journey of success." At the induction ceremony, two members of the PTK Executive Board were recognized by President Ebersole: Vice President of Fund Raising Tammy Holshu, and Vice Presidnet of Membership Nathaniel Moening.

In addition to promoting academic achievement, PTK is also dedicated to serving the local community. "The Alpha Rho Gamma Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa is dedicated to the concept of being a servant – leader," explains WSCC's PTK advisor, Brad Merritt. Organizations PTK has worked with include the Marietta Memorial Hospice, the YMCA, Eve Inc., Habitat for Humanity, the Humane Society, troops in Afghanistan, Zonta, Empty Bowls, and the Relay for Life. "The Relay for Life is our signature event, and last year we raised over $7,600," says Merritt. "This year, our goal is $10,000."

WSCC student and PTK member Samantha Jadwin talks about being involved in an organization like PTK. "Being a member of Phi Theta Kappa in itself is an amazing experience," she says. "We do our best to make a difference in the community, and I think as time goes on and the chapter grows, Alpha Rho Gamma will do some pretty amazing things."

In early April, 2013, eight students, three alumni, Merritt, and President Ebersole attended the national PTK Conference in San Jose, California. This year, WSCC PTK members received multiple recognitions and awards at the conference. The chapter received the Honors in Action Project Award, and the Distinguished Chapter Officer Award went to Holshu. Member Sondra Holbert also received an award: a certificate for Distinguished Alumni. WSCC's PTK was also recognized for being among the top 100 out of 1,300 chapters worldwide, and ranking in 3rd place out of those 1,300 chapters for amount of funds raised for the Relay for Life. In addition to the awards and recognitions, Holshu and fellow member Judy Bonnette presented a well-received breakout session on Relay for Life fundraising.

President Ebersole emphasizes the value of PTK to the WSCC community. "'Phi Theta Kappa represents an extremely successful activity at WSCC," he says, "and the fact that this success is based around academic achievement illustrates high academic integrity of the college."